Want extravagant crystal nails with real dimension and shine? This guide shows you a 3D chrome and crystal application technique for nails using Serinity flatback crystals, combining round stones with marquise, rhombus, pear and flame shapes over a sculpted 3D gel base finished with chrome.
It is all about building the right texture, placing your crystals with intention and sealing them properly, and once you have the method you can take it in any colour or direction. Our own Austrian made Serinity crystals come in a wide range of shapes and sizes, so you can build dramatic, dimensional detail and fill every gap neatly. Here is everything you need, then the full method.
Project at a glance
- Difficulty: Intermediate
- Time: Around 30 to 45 minutes for an accent nail
- Crystals used: Serinity flatbacks mixing SS9 and SS16 rounds in Citrus Green and Blue Zircon with Marquise, Rhombus, Pear and Flame shapes
- Best crystal type: Non-hotfix flatbacks, set into 3D gel on gel nails
What you'll need
These are the crystal shapes and tools used in the tutorial, so adjust the mix to suit your design. Crystal shapes are sold in small packs, so a little goes a long way across a set. Add the crystals and tools to your cart from the cards below, and browse the full range of tools and accessories to build your kit.
- Prepped gel nailYour base, cleansed and ready1
- Serinity Flatbacks SS9 & SS16, Citrus GreenRound stones1 pack each
- Serinity Flatbacks SS9 & SS16, Blue ZirconRound stones1 pack each
- Serinity Marquise Flatbacks 4 x 2mm, EmeraldShaped accents1 pack
- Serinity Rhombus Flatbacks 13 x 8mm, CrystalStatement centre stone1 pack
- Serinity Pear Flatbacks 8 x 5mm, HeliotropeShaped accents1 pack
- Serinity Flame Flatbacks 7.5mm, Light SiamShaped accents1 pack
- KiaraSky Top CoatPrep surface for the chrome1
- Black 3D gelBuilding the dimensional texture1
- Chrome powderReflective finish1
- Crystal gelSecuring the crystals1
- Small UV lampFlash-curing between stages1
- Liner brush, 15mm or 20mmApplying 3D gel lines1
- Applicator spongeApplying the chrome1
- Soft brushRemoving excess chrome1
- Crystal trayOrganising crystals1
Shop this project
Everything you need for this build. Quantities are a guide, so adjust to your design.
From £2.21 ex VAT
From £2.12 ex VAT
From £5.48 ex VAT
£1.95 ex VAT
£5.12 ex VAT
Not sure how many crystals you need? Use our Crystal Calculator to estimate by surface area.
How to create a 3D chrome and crystal nail design
Step 1: Prepare your crystals
Choose the crystals you will use and lay them out in a crystal tray. Having everything prepared and within reach makes the application faster and far easier.
Step 2: Prepare the gel surface
Apply KiaraSky Top Coat over the nail and cure for 60 seconds. This creates a clean surface for the chrome later in the process, so it adheres only to the intended design and the rest of the nail stays clean.
Step 3: Begin the 3D gel and crystal application
Start building the 3D texture using 3D gel alongside your crystals. You will need a 15mm or 20mm liner brush, a 3D gel (a black 3D gel makes it easier to see where the design is forming) and a small UV lamp to flash-cure before moving to your larger lamp.
Step 4: Build the design and place your crystals
Apply a small amount of 3D gel to the centre of the nail, gradually building it up for a dimensional, voluminous effect. Once you have the texture you want, place your crystals: larger stones in the centre, medium stones toward the sides and smaller stones toward the ends. This is an artistic look, so let your imagination guide you. Larger crystals need more 3D gel underneath and around them for support and security, so they are less likely to lift over time. Flash-cure for 15 seconds once your larger crystals are set.
Next, use your liner brush to draw thinner lines of 3D gel around the crystals for a unique, artistic finish, adding smaller crystals into these details if you like. When you are happy, flash-cure again for 15 seconds, then cure in your larger lamp for 60 seconds.
Step 5: Apply the chrome
Once the 3D gel is fully cured, use a small applicator sponge to gently rub the chrome over the raised design. Apply a little pressure to work it into the gel for an even, reflective finish, then use a soft brush to remove any excess chrome from the nail and around the design.
Step 6: Seal the chrome
Apply top coat only over the chrome portions of the design. Never apply top coat over the surface of your crystals, as this dulls their natural shine. Keep the crystals exposed so they hold their reflective finish.
Step 7: Final touch and extra security
If you are worried about crystals lifting, apply a little crystal gel around the edges of the larger stones for added security. Apply it only around the crystals, never over their surfaces, so their shine stays intact. And that is it, an extravagant, dimensional, beautifully finished crystal design.
Frequently asked questions
How do you create a 3D nail design?
Build texture with a 3D gel applied to the centre of the nail, then place your crystals into it while it is still soft, larger stones first, flash-curing as you go. Add finer gel lines around the stones for detail, then cure fully. The gel gives the raised, dimensional base that sets this design apart from flat crystal work.
How do you apply chrome over 3D gel?
Cure the 3D gel fully, then rub chrome powder over the raised design with a small applicator sponge, using light pressure so it grips the gel for an even, mirror-like finish. Brush away any excess with a soft brush, then seal only the chrome areas with top coat.
Should you put top coat over nail crystals?
No. Keep top coat around the crystals, never over them. Top coat over the surface dulls the crystals and hides their shine, whereas sealing around them with gel protects the nail and holds the stones while letting them sparkle at full brilliance.
How do you stop nail crystals falling off?
Set larger crystals into plenty of 3D gel for support, and secure the edges with a little crystal gel once the design is finished. Sealing around the stones this way locks them in and stops them lifting or catching on clothing and hair through the day.
What crystals are best for 3D nail art?
Flatback crystals, which sit flush and set neatly into gel. Mixing a round size such as SS9 or SS16 with shaped stones like marquise, rhombus, pear and flame lets you build balanced, dramatic designs. We used Serinity flatbacks here for their clean cut and consistent sizing.
Can I use a different crystal brand or colour?
Yes. Any flatback shapes and shades work with the same method. We used our own Austrian made Serinity crystals here; you can also use premium Swarovski, Czech made Preciosa or budget Estella in the shapes and colours that suit your design.
Make it your own
Swap in different colours, mix in new shapes, or build the design across a full set. For more nail inspiration, see how to apply crystals to nails or create a bridal crystal nail design, or explore the full Nail Studio.
